Haile Selassie (1892–1975) was the last Emperor of Ethiopia, ruling from 1930 to 1974. Born as Ras Tafari Makonnen, he became regent and then emperor, taking the name Haile Selassie I. A prominent figure in African and global politics, he was a strong advocate for African unity and played a key role in the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU). Haile Selassie is also revered by the Rastafari movement as the messiah and the earthly representation of God, Jah. His reign saw Ethiopia’s resistance against Italian invasion during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War and later challenges, including political unrest that led to his deposition in 1974.
Tafari Makonnen was born to Ras Makonnen, a governor, and Yeshimebet Ali Abajifar, who had a significant impact on his early education. At the age of 14, Tafari was appointed as the governor of Sidamo province, a position that marked the beginning of his political career. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes became evident as he gained experience in provincial administration.
In 1916, Tafari became the regent and heir to the Ethiopian throne, which was occupied by Empress Zewditu. This position marked a critical juncture in his political ascent, as he navigated court politics and established himself as a key player in Ethiopian governance. Tafari’s modernizing vision for Ethiopia included efforts to introduce a constitution, modern education, and infrastructure development.
One of Haile Selassie’s most notable achievements during this period was Ethiopia’s successful resistance against Italian invasion in 1935-1936, commonly known as the First Italo-Ethiopian War. His diplomatic skills played a pivotal role in garnering international support for Ethiopia. Despite the eventual occupation of Ethiopia by Italian forces, Haile Selassie’s appeal to the League of Nations and his famous address in 1936 brought attention to the Ethiopian cause and earned him admiration as a symbol of resistance against colonial aggression.
During the Italian occupation, Haile Selassie lived in exile, primarily in Britain. His efforts to mobilize international support for Ethiopia continued, and as World War II unfolded, British and Allied forces liberated Ethiopia in 1941. Haile Selassie triumphantly returned to his homeland, resuming his role as Emperor and reestablishing Ethiopian sovereignty.
Post-World War II, Haile Selassie actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to position Ethiopia as a respected member of the global community. He played a key role in the establishment of the United Nations and advocated for the principles of sovereignty and self-determination. His diplomatic achievements elevated Ethiopia’s status and earned him the admiration of many African nations.
In 1963, Haile Selassie played a prominent role in the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), a continental organization aimed at promoting unity and solidarity among African nations. His commitment to African unity and independence was reflected in his speeches and actions, making him a revered figure among leaders in the decolonizing African nations.
While Haile Selassie’s diplomatic accomplishments garnered international acclaim, his rule faced challenges on the domestic front. Ethiopia experienced socio-economic disparities, and questions arose about the effectiveness of the monarchy in addressing the needs of the population. In 1974, amid growing discontent and a series of internal crises, Haile Selassie’s reign came to an end when he was deposed in a coup.
The Derg, a Marxist-Leninist military junta led by Mengistu Haile Mariam, seized power and established a socialist state. Haile Selassie was placed under house arrest, and his death on August 27, 1975, under mysterious circumstances, raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his demise. In 2000, Haile Selassie’s remains were reburied in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with an official state funeral attended by various dignitaries.
Haile Selassie’s legacy extends beyond his political career; he is also a central figure in the Rastafari movement. In the 1920s, a prophecy emerged among the Rastafari community in Jamaica that a messianic figure, believed to be Haile Selassie, would lead the African diaspora to freedom. Rastafarians regard Haile Selassie as the earthly incarnation of God (Jah) and consider Ethiopia a promised land.
The Rastafari movement, with its roots in the social and political context of Jamaica, found inspiration in Haile Selassie’s resistance against colonialism and his role as a symbol of African identity. The iconic image of Haile Selassie, often seen with a distinctive lion’s mane, became a symbol of African pride and resistance against oppression within the Rastafari movement.
Haile Selassie’s impact on Ethiopia and Africa, as well as his role in the global arena, remains a subject of historical and cultural significance. His diplomatic efforts, particularly during times of war and international turmoil, showcased his commitment to Ethiopian sovereignty and African unity. While his legacy is complex and includes both admiration and criticism, Haile Selassie’s contributions to Ethiopia’s history and his symbolic role in movements like Rastafari ensure that his influence endures in various spheres.